Editor’s notes: Despite the stress and uncertainty the Covid-19 epidemic has brought, young volunteers in Chongqing have made positive changes to respond to the virus. He Jialing, a law graduate, used to volunteer for legal literacy and awareness campaigns in school. During the latest round of the epidemic, she became one of the first volunteers in her firm to help with the situation.

“At the latest epidemic round, the law firm I work for called for staff to volunteer for epidemic prevention and control work, and I signed up for it with no hesitation. Time is tight, and the task is heavy. I was on duty at 8 o’clock, combatting the spread of misinformation and offering help to people who were in need.”

“Chongqing in November had experienced several rounds of temperature drops. It was getting chilly out there. Even after putting on the protective coverall, the coldness was still unbearable for the lack of adequate ventilation. In the gloves, both hands were soaked white with alcohol and sweat. The volunteers were busy from 8:00 am until 4:00 pm, with no break in between.”

“It’s true that volunteering can be hard. But during the special times, there have been plenty of heartwarming stories of humanity sparkling out just when we need each other the most. While the volunteers stood eating breakfast, the store owner set up the folding table and stools for us. Meals were delivered to us within minutes after I mentioned I was hungry, which was the best box meal I’ve ever had. A passing-by tricycle driver gave me a free ride to the volunteer site in the early morning.”

“There are countless heartwarming stories like these happening all the time. They made me believe volunteering is one thing that can bring happiness to people. I have volunteered for legal literacy and awareness campaigns in the countryside since my sophomore year. Some people have asked me why I volunteer, which is time-consuming without getting paid. I couldn’t answer this question. Because I do not volunteer for any “reason.” Helping others seems to have become an instinct for me. Especially right now, my hometown is facing a tough time. I have no reason not to do so.”